Type of Organization

Emergency Management

Job Function

911 Operator/Dispatcher

Years in Fire/EMS:

11

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Colbert County EMA/E911

Years With Department/Agency

12

Dept. Web Site:

http://www.colbert911.org

Web Site:

http://www.cherokeefirerescue.org

Other Past or Current Departments and Organizations

White Oak VFD (my first experience)
Nitrate City VFD (the best place yet!)
Cherokee Rescue Squad

My Training:

FireFighter 160, EMT-B, EMD, EFD, EPD, ETC-Instructor

About Me:

I joined White Oak VFD when I was a Senior in high school. That is where I cut my teeth with both fire and medical calls. After high school, I moved out of the White Oak VFD jurisdiction, and into a Paid department's area. However, I was only 5 minutes from another VFD. That is when I joined Nitrate City VFD. This was one of the best experiences in the emergency services field I've ever had.

I began working at Colbert County E-911 in 1997 and am now a Supervisor with the agency. What began as a part-time job has now become my career, and I love it!

Later, I met the love of my life and moved to Cherokee, where I joined the Cherokee VFD and Cherokee Rescue Squad. I received my EMT license in 98-99.

I also work part-time for Keller EMS.

Day Job:

Colbert County EMA/E-911

Relationship Status:

Married

Facebook or Other Online Profile:

http://www.facebook.com/mds79

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

During the ice storm of 1994, we had a fire in our shop and the local VFD came. That sparked some interest in the fire service for me, but I never acted on it. Then, as a Senior in High School, my best friend joined his local VFD and urged me to join mine. So I did, and it has been such an experience, with both UPS and DOWNS.

Why I Love Fire/EMS

having the chance to save someone's life or property.

Top Issues Facing Responders:

Recruitment and Retainment of Volunteers